Who We Are with Rachel Lim

I had the joy of spending time with Ssonia Ong of Ong Squad during her visit to Singapore, where I was deeply moved by the strong bond she shares with her husband and 5 children, aged 2 to 14. Their close-knit family culture radiates warmth and genuine joy, and I was eager to discover the parenting principles that guide her. Ssonia’s story of reinvention is truly inspiring. When she was 38, she bravely pivoted from a fulfilling career as a child trauma counsellor to become a thriving content creator on TikTok, amassing over 17 million followers. It took immense courage to step into this new chapter, and her journey is a testament to the power of following your passions, no matter your age. In our conversation, she opens up about her parenting journey, the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with a new career, and how she fosters a nurturing environment for her kids. Join me as I explore her incredible story and the belief that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Ssonia’s insights will inspire anyone looking to make a meaningful change in their life. 00:00 Introduction 00:36 Get to know Ssonia Ong  03:38 Content Creation During the Pandemic  08:22 Transitioning to a Full-Time Content Creator 10:33 Balancing Content Creation and Motherhood 12:09 Finding Inspiration on TikTok  13:05 Kevin’s Role in Ong Squad  15:22 Embracing Imperfection as a Content Creator  17:12 Creating Content with Positive Impact  19:13 Protecting Children on Social Media  23:21 Navigating Social Media Validation and Criticism  26:05 Memorable Interactions with Followers  27:18 Ssonia’s Content Creation Strategies  28:53 Redefining Creativity and Taking Risks  32:38 Navigating Motherhood with 5 Kids  35:30 Prioritising Marriage Amidst Parenting  39:14 Ssonia’s Advice for Young Parents  41:13 The Key to Raising Healthy Kids  42:12 Advice for Middle-Aged Dreamers  44:13 Ssonia’s Biggest Lesson in Life  44:49 Final Reflections Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Ong Squad here: https://www.instagram.com/_ongsquad/

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a renowned neuroscientist from NYU and author of "Healthy Brain, Happy Life," shares her insights on brain plasticity and cognitive health. She reveals how lifestyle choices like exercise and meditation can enhance mental agility. Dr. Suzuki emphasizes the importance of sleep in reinforcing memory and managing stress, offering techniques such as deep breathing to combat anxiety. With practical advice for parents on fostering brain development, this conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to boost their brainpower!

In this special 10-minute episode, I chat with Janet Lansbury, a leading voice in respectful parenting, about the power of empathetic caregiving. We explore the crucial roles parents play in creating a nurturing environment, the art of observing and waiting to let children grow, and practical strategies for fostering strong parent-child and sibling relationships. Janet shares actionable tips to help you build deeper, more meaningful connections with your children and enrich your parenting journey. Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation! 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Respectful Parenting: Our Roles as Parents  02:26 Learning To Observe and Wait  06:59 Cultivating a Nurturing Parent-Child Relationship  08:18 Promoting Positive Sibling-Relationships  09:50 Closing Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Janet Lansbury here: https://www.instagram.com/janetlansbury/

Sadhana Rai, a former commercial disputes lawyer turned pro bono advocate, shares her inspiring journey from privilege to purpose. She reflects on her modest upbringing, which fueled her passion for justice and empathy. Sadhana discusses the challenges and triumphs in her pro bono work, addressing the emotional toll of advocating for underprivileged clients. Her stories highlight the importance of resilience and the vital connection between self-care and social justice, urging listeners to recognize and act on societal inequalities.

In this solo episode, I’m inviting you into a deeply personal and intimate space — one where we can reflect, grow, and have honest, heart-to-heart conversations. It’s a chance for us to connect on a more meaningful level, exploring the lessons life has been teaching me lately and how I’m finding my way through them.In this episode, I cover:​⁠  ⁠Reflections and key takeaways from past episodes​⁠  ⁠Areas I’m currently focusing on to improve​⁠  ⁠Behind-the-scenes look at upcoming projects close to my heart​⁠  ⁠Finding clarity during seasons of uncertainty​⁠  ⁠The power of saying no to prioritize what truly matters​⁠  ⁠Two book recommendations that have shaped my journeyThis isn’t just an episode; it’s a personal conversation between us, grounded in reflection, growth, and the shared journey we’re all on. I hope it resonates with you, brings comfort or inspiration, and reminds you that we’re navigating life’s twists and turns together — one step at a time 🤍00:00 Welcome & Introduction01:45 Catching Up with Rachel03:11 Reflections on Key Insights from Past Episodes12:01 Current Focus: What I’m Working on Improving15:06 Behind the Scenes: Updates on Ongoing Projects18:37 Navigating Uncertainty: Encouragement for Those Feeling Stuck21:00 Book Recommendations & Personal Reflections31:17 Closing Thoughts & FarewellFollow Rachel here:  https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Books Involved:The Obstacle Is the Way: https://a.co/d/4nkapVvThe Courage to Be Disliked: https://a.co/d/4uJeYRC

In this episode, I sit down with Valeria Lipovetsky, a woman whose journey from the world of modeling to the heights of entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring. I first met Valeria two years ago at a personal growth retreat in Ibiza, and since then, I’ve been deeply moved by her relentless drive, her commitment to self-improvement, and her ability to gracefully navigate the many roles she plays—as a mother, wife, entrepreneur, and content creator.
Together, we explore the pivotal moments that shaped Valeria’s life, from her upbringing to her career in modeling, and her bold transition into the entrepreneurial world. Valeria opens up about the challenges she faced in starting her first business, Verie. We dive into her YouTube career, where she shares how she stays true to herself amidst the pressures of public life, and what it takes to maintain authenticity in a digital age.
Valeria also offers invaluable insights into balancing work with marriage, revealing the key factors that have helped her and her husband, Gary, thrive both personally and professionally. We discuss the complexities of motherhood, the ever-present tension between ambition and contentment, and how she confronts self-doubt while striving for growth.
This episode is a deep dive into the life of a woman who is constantly evolving, learning, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative at heart, or someone seeking inspiration in your personal life, Valeria’s story will leave you with valuable lessons on how to define and pursue your own path to success.
00:00 Introduction00:43 Meet Valeria Lipovetsky: A Journey of Growth04:43 Influences and Lessons from Valeria’s Upbringing09:52 Insights from a Modelling Career12:21 From Content Creator to Entrepreneur: Valeria’s Evolution15:38 Building a YouTube Empire17:13 Staying Authentic in the Spotlight19:17 Closing a Meaningful Chapter with Verie22:34 The Reality of Pursuing Passion in Business25:37 Valeria’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs27:36 Redefining Success: Valeria’s Perspective28:39 Navigating Business and Marriage with Your Spouse32:30 Resolving Conflict in Marriage37:01 The Complexities of Motherhood43:13 Confronting Self-Doubt46:35 Balancing Ambition and Contentment48:44 Valeria’s Biggest Life Lessons51:11 Timeless Fashion Advice52:47 Final Reflections
Follow Rachel here:  https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Valeria Lipovetsky here: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky

In this episode, I sit down with Jocelyn and Aaron Freeman, the dynamic couple behind Empowered Couples University, to explore the real challenges that every relationship faces. With over 802,000 couples served, Jocelyn and Aaron share their personal journey from navigating their own differences to becoming sought-after relationship coaches. They reveal the key skills that every couple needs but often weren't taught — how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and maintain connection amidst life’s chaos. We dive into their insights on love, partnership, and the everyday rituals that have kept their marriage strong. Whether you’re struggling with recurring arguments, balancing busy schedules, or simply looking to deepen your connection, this conversation offers practical, heartfelt advice that every couple can relate to. Tune in for an episode that’s as inspiring as it is real, and discover how to take your relationship from surviving to thriving. 00:00 Introduction 00:26 Get to Know The Freemans 02:11 Common Relationship Challenges 05:36 Practical Reconciliation Tools 08:02 Is Love Enough? 09:20 The Love Account Check-In 11:10 Repair in Relationships 13:42 Tools for Effective Communication 17:58 Identifying Your Relationship Needle Movers 19:58 Navigating Parenthood Together 26:02 Staying Connected with Your Partner 28:00 The Freemans’ Healthy Marriage Rituals 32:28 Weathering Life’s Storms Together 35:09 Encouraging a Resistant Partner 38:11 Final Thoughts Follow Rachel here:  https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow The Freemans here: https://www.instagram.com/meet_thefreemans

In this personal and inspiring episode, I sit down with Janice Koh, a renowned Singaporean actress, to explore her courageous journey through tongue cancer. At the beginning of 2022, Janice's life was upended by a persistent ulcer that was diagnosed as cancer. Facing multiple surgeries and losing a significant part of her tongue, Janice had to redefine her identity and cope with the loss of her voice—an actor's most cherished tool. Janice candidly shares her emotional turmoil and the resilience required to navigate such life-altering changes. She reflects on finding strength in vulnerability, discovering new sources of joy, and living mindfully in the face of uncertainty. Janice delves into finding inner peace amidst chaos and the significance of suffering in personal growth. She shares her reflections on the preciousness of time, the gift of presence, and the journey of letting go of old identities to embrace new possibilities. Join me as Janice takes us on a journey of rebirth and renewal, offering a testament to the power of the human spirit. Her story is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope and the potential for a new beginning.  Whether you are facing your own struggles or seeking inspiration, Janice's journey will leave you moved, uplifted, and deeply inspired by the lessons she has learned and the wisdom she imparts. 00:00 Introduction 00:26 Get To Know Janice Koh 02:00 Receiving a Cancer Diagnosis 07:34 Discovering Inner Strength 09:30 Understanding Her Diagnosis 13:08 The Habits That Grounded Her  16:03 How Cancer Transformed Janice’s Life 18:45 Redefining Herself as an Actress 26:59 The Power of Asking for Help 29:29 Experiencing a Rebirth 31:04 Her Relationship with Her Children 33:13 Advice to Her Younger Self 34:42 Balancing Faith and Doubt 35:57 Redefining Success 37:51 Embracing the Present Moment 39:08 Welcoming a New Chapter 41:12 Closing Reflections Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Janice here: https://www.instagram.com/janiceymkoh?igsh=MXc2Ym4zeTcxOTU2OA==

As a parent myself, I'm always seeking ways to expand my knowledge and create a nurturing environment for Ollie and Keira. The Montessori approach has been particularly intriguing to me because of its emphasis on fostering independence, curiosity, and respect in children. By providing tools for success, encouraging their abilities, and giving them space to develop independently, the Montessori way offers a powerful alternative to conventional parenting. It helps children develop critical thinking, self-discipline, and a love for learning while maintaining a respectful and collaborative parent-child relationship.In this episode, experienced Montessori educators and advocates Simone Davies and Junnifa Uzodike share invaluable insights on integrating Montessori principles into the daily lives of school-aged children. We explore key differences between Montessori and traditional parenting, debunk common misconceptions, and offer practical tips for cultivating respect and handling tantrums with grace.Discover how to balance nurturing and spoiling, create meaningful connections, and bring joy into modern parenting. Simone and Junnifa also discuss the importance of co-regulation, unlearning traditional parenting practices, and adjusting to the Montessori approach.Join us as we uncover how the Montessori way can help support our child's unique potential, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a respectful and collaborative relationship between parent and child.00:00 Introduction00:30 Get to know Junnifa Uzodike and Simone Davies 03:21 Montessori Parenting vs. Traditional Parenting 07:40 Misconceptions of Montessori Parenting 09:52 Cultivating Respect at Home 13:20 Handling Tantrums and Meltdowns 16:58 Spoiling vs. Nurturing Your Children 21:59 Navigating Values and Principles 26:18 Creating Connection and Joy as Modern Parents 29:18 Co-Regulation Tips with Toddlers 32:00 Unlearning Traditional Parenting33:00 Adjusting to Montessori Parenting  36:40 Advice for Modern Parents 38:16 Final Thoughts Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Simone Davies here: https://www.instagram.com/themontessorinotebook/Follow Junnifa Uzodike here: https://www.instagram.com/montessori_nduoma/Purchase 'The Montessori Child' here: https://a.co/d/c2JSvQLPurchase ‘The Montessori Baby’ here: https://a.co/d/cxAxQhoPurchase ‘The Montessori Toddler’ here: https://a.co/d/9YHKQXq

Have you ever found yourself wanting to make a change in your life or career, yet feeling inexplicably stuck? You're not alone. The gap between knowing what we need to do and actually doing it is a common struggle that many face. In this episode with our in-house guest expert Joyce, we dive deep into this challenge and uncover why it's so hard to get “unstuck.” We delve into the ‘knowing-doing gap’ and the emotional immune system, uncovering why we often resist change despite our best intentions. Joyce walks us through the immunity map, revealing how hidden commitments and limiting beliefs hold us back. With practical strategies and personal examples, Joyce offers insights to help you bridge the gap between wanting change and making it happen. Whether you’re aiming for a career shift, better relationships, or personal growth, this episode provides the tools to move from desire to action. Join us for an inspiring conversation on mastering the art of willing change. 00:00 Introduction 00:57 The Human Struggle with Change  02:18 The ‘Knowing-Doing Gap’  04:05 Understanding Our Emotional Immune System  05:18 Wanting Change vs. Making Change  08:18 The Immunity Map  25:53 Cultivating Courage for Change  27:37 Joyce’s Advice on Making Change  28:18 Final Thoughts  Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Get connected with Joyce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyce-chen-coach/ Additional resources:  [DOWNLOAD] The Immunity Map: https://bit.ly/4cTsjto [READ] 'The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership’: https://a.co/d/fyaTVKW [LEARN MORE] Conscious Leadership Group: https://conscious.is/